Guide on How to Get an API Key on Your OpenAI Account

API Key is a string of characters used as an authentication method, allowing users to securely access services or data of a specific application remotely. In other words, OpenAI's API Key is like an electronic key that lets you "unlock" and utilize the powerful AI technologies provided by OpenAI.

This article will guide you step by step on how to obtain an API Key, along with some important notes when using it.

If you already have an OpenAI account, you can log in using the link below:
https://platform.openai.com/login

ChatGPT is a product of OpenAI, so if you already have a ChatGPT account, that is also your OpenAI account.

After logging in, click on API keys in the menu to access the API key management section.
Alternatively, you can go directly via this link
https://platform.openai.com/api-keys

On the API key management screen, click on Create new secret key, and the following screen will appear:

Then, enter a name for the API key. The name is only used to distinguish between different API keys in your list, so it doesn’t matter what you name it.

The API key will be created immediately. Make sure to copy this API key, as for security reasons, the system will only display the API key once at this moment.

If you are certain that you no longer need a particular API key, or if your API key has been exposed to others, delete it to ensure safety.

On the API key list screen, click on the trash bin icon on the right, then click on Revoke key to permanently delete the API key.

Never share or expose your API key to others, as someone else could use your API key, and you will be the one footing the bill.

To ensure your safety, OpenAI may automatically disable an API key if they suspect it has been exposed to external parties.